Marriage

What is Forced Marriage?

Forced marriage is a practice in which marriage takes place without the consent of one or both parties against his or her own will. If consent is given, it is usually under duress and fear. A forced marriage is different than an arranged marriage in which both parties consent to the assistance of their parents or third party (for example, a match maker) in choosing a spouse.

Mostly women and girls are forced into marriage for various of reasons. This may be an atonement for an offence commited by a family member or act as a servant for a first wife. Victims are abused physically, sexually, financially and are treated as slave within their own home. They have no control over their immigration documents, are isolated from society and/or afraid to shame their families.